The bark from this Amazonian tree is reputed to be a stimulant and an aphrodisiac for both sexes, raising the sex drive and increasing blood flow to the pelvic region. Shredded bits of the golden bark can be chewed or prepared in a tea or tincture. It is also used as a general tonic and nervous system stimulant, useful in cases of depression and low energy, with some preliminary evidence that it acts on the dopamine receptors. Some people report that consumption of muira puama has a noticeable effect on their sex drive similar to that of yohimbe. The herb is new to science so its traditional uses are still largely unsupported by conclusive scientific evidence.